Former presidential candidate Mr. Peter Obi has urged Nigerians to embrace dialogue and reconciliation following the conviction of Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.
In a post on his verified Facebook page titled “Kanu’s Conviction: At a Time Like This,” Obi described the development as one that could escalate tensions rather than ease them, especially as the country grapples with economic hardship, insecurity, and governance challenges.
Obi reiterated his long-held stance that Kanu should never have been arrested, asserting that his detention and conviction reflect a failure of leadership and a lack of understanding of the issues involved.
“Dialogue, constructive engagement, and inclusive governance offer the path to lasting peace,” Obi wrote. “Coercion becomes necessary only when reason has been exhausted. In this case, reason was probably not explored at all.”
He called on the government to prioritize empathy, wisdom, and listening over strict legal enforcement, stressing that grievances should be addressed through reforms and negotiations aimed at strengthening national unity.
Obi also urged the Presidency, the Council of State, and respected statesmen to act for lasting peace, emphasizing that leadership requires more than the mechanical application of the law.
“The handling of Kanu’s case mirrors a government trapped in a hole, digging deeper instead of finding a way out,” he said. “If we truly desire a new Nigeria—united, peaceful, and progressive—our leaders must choose healing over hostility and dialogue over division.”
The former Anambra governor concluded his statement by calling for optimism, peace, and reconciliation, stressing that these remain essential for Nigeria’s cohesion and inclusivity.
Discover more from Rootedscope Media
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
